Sable Thorpe
Katie Young, a middle-aged woman who's been divorced three times, has moved to Occoquan and is in a new relationship with Deke, a local scientist. When Deke plans to work during the holiday season, Katie struggles with feeling left behind. Throughout the story, Katie relies on her female friends for emotional support. The book explores her personal growth, learning to be vulnerable and not self-sabotage her current relationship.
A gentle warning: Set in 2021, the narrative references to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the characters' lives. It is mentioned more frequently than I believe most readers would enjoy, especially if it is a sensitive topic. Overall I enjoyed a lot about this book - more mature main characters, her friends, and honesty about navigating life after having your heart broken. It wasn't super Christmas-y, so if you're looking for something that is focused on Xmas, this might not be your favourite.
Maria Marquis does a great job narrating, with different voices for male characters and a good Southern drawl!
Thank you to Make Waves Press and NetGalley for providing a copy of this audiobook for review.
Sarah Chislon's prequel novella introduces you to Jessa Caldwell, a heroine dealing with a tricky world full of fae drama and societal rules. Set in a gaslamp fantasy world, this story mixes mystery, magic, and some real-life issues.
Jessa's battle with her secret fae side adds tension, and her drive to protect her aunt while finding the truth keeps the story moving. Chislon creates a compelling seting that blends mystery, magical realism, and character growth. Some people might find the style of the prose a little fragmented or slow, but it doesn't strongly affect my opinion.
With its rich world and complex heroine, “Whispers in the Waters” is the start of an exciting fantasy series that I want to continue reading.
“The Witch's Lens” by Luanne G. Smith is a delightful blend of historical fiction and fantasy that deserves a solid 5/5 stars. The story is centered around Petra's unique talent for capturing souls on film during World War I, which makes for a truly engaging read from beginning to end. Although romance isn't the main focus, it adds a lovely layer of depth to the story. Smith skillfully weaves together world-building, character development, and exciting pacing, resulting in a satisfying and well-rounded conclusion.
At First Spite is an excellent contemporary romance, earning a solid five stars from me. This book not only hooks you in with its unique premise but keeps you engaged with its fun storytelling and dynamic characters. The Spite House concept, a tiny ten-foot-wide home that becomes a symbol of Athena's independence, is not only original but completely captivating. I couldn't help but get caught up in the idea of living in such a quirky and special space, imagining the potential for turning a spiteful purchase into a place of self-discovery and new beginnings.
Olivia Dade's writing is full of detailed descriptions that bring the story to life vividly. From the quirky architecture of the Spite House to the emotional rollercoaster rides of the characters, the story is conveyed with care and detail. The settings and scenes are so vividly portrayed that it feels like you're a nosy neighbour of the Spite House, experiencing the tension and chemistry between Athena and Matthew.
The romance between Athena and Matthew is both intricate and charming. Their journey from adversaries to partners is filled with misunderstandings, personal growth, and witty banter. Dade expertly navigates their relationship, ensuring that their love story feels genuine and well-earned. The steamy scenes throughout the book add just the right amount of passion, making their connection even more exciting. These moments are fun, spicy, and meaningful, adding depth to Athena and Matthew's bond and showcasing their emotional and physical chemistry.
What sets Olivia's writing apart is its ability to blend humour with heartfelt moments, creating a story that is both entertaining and emotionally impactful. The exploration of serious themes like grief and depression is handled with care, adding layers to the characters and their journey together.
Overall, At First Spite is Olivia Dade's finest work yet, a perfect mix of fun, heart, and passion. It's a story that hits home, reminding us of the power of second chances and the unexpected paths to love. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a romance that is as thoughtful as it is exciting.
The cover is perfect, the art style is bang on for the vibe of this story and even includes the strawberry dress.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
“Can't Spell Treason Without Tea” by Rebecca Thorne is a delightful story that takes readers on a charming adventure through a world filled with love, magic, and mystery.
Thorne's writing brings readers into the lives of Reyna, a determined Queen's guard weary of serving a harsh ruler, and Kianthe, a powerful mage yearning for a simpler life with Reyna. Their forbidden love grew as they dreamt of escaping their oppressive circumstances to open a quaint book and tea shop. After their escape, they both navigate challenges from their past and present, and their relationship develops, offering a sweet f/f romance.
While the pacing is uneven at times, Thorne's storytelling skills keep readers engaged. The charming town of Tawney and its quirky residents create a cosy atmosphere that draws readers into the magical world of the story.
Can't Spell Treason Without Tea is a good blend of romance, magic, and mystery. Thorne weaves together elements of cosy fantasy with moments of tension, ensuring an enjoyable read from beginning to end.
For fans of Legends & Lattes looking for an f/f romance in a charming fantasy setting, this book is for you.
4/5 stars
4/5 Stars!
In “For She Is Wrath,” Emily Varga presents an engaging gender-swapped fantasy retelling of “The Count of Monte Cristo” (one of my favourite books). The story follows Dania, who is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime she didn't commit. After spending a year being tortured and plotting her escape, she finally manages to get out with help from a fellow prisoner. Together, they track down a hidden trove of djinn magic, which sets the stage for Dania's carefully planned revenge against those who betrayed her, including Mazin, the boy she once loved (and maybe still loves, despite her righteous anger).
Varga's storytelling prowess is shown through her excellent prose, her fierce heroine, and the magic system she creates. The whole book is filled with emotional depth from the very beginning. Dania is a strong protagonist - smart, determined, and tough, but not a ‘pick me'. The complex relationship between Dania and Mazin adds a layer of tension to this story of vengeance, drawing readers into their emotional dynamic.
The rich fantasy world-building draws upon Pakistani lore and culture, skillfully blending these elements into a magic system that mirrors the characters' emotional journeys. This connection adds significance to every display of power, heightening the stakes throughout the narrative.
While I found the pacing slows a little in the middle, the final act makes up for it with exciting twists and satisfying emotional resolutions. One small note: some dialogue in fast-paced scenes could be more clearly noted to help distinguish the speaker more effectively, some sections I had to reread to be sure.
This enchanting YA fantasy is perfect for readers who enjoy strong heroines, innovative magic systems, and narratives that thoughtfully explore the complexities of power and revenge. Varga's debut is an exhilarating start, establishing her as a talented author to keep an eye on in the fantasy genre.
I listened to the audiobook version, which was very captivating. I feel the narrator did very well with distinctive voices, and was a good fit for the story as well.
Thank you to Macmillan UK Audio and NetGalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
3.5/5 Stars
General Thoughts:
‘Our Vengeful Souls' blends the legends of Atlantis with a backstory to Disney's Ursula in ‘The Little Mermaid,' aiming to offer a sympathetic backstory to the sea witch. The concept is intriguing, and the story is captivating, but the ending feels a little inconsistent (motivation/morals wise) and somewhat rushed. Knowing this is a backstory for Ursula, you know the ending wasn't going to be an HEA, though. Despite this nit-pick, the novel presents an engaging twist on what could have been a flat backstory.
Story Summary:
Sereia, a mermaid with extraordinary magic powers, becomes entangled in a family feud for her father's throne with her brother Triton (hate that guy). When Triton curses Sereia to live as a human and threatens her with transformation into a monster upon returning to the sea, her journey takes her to Atlantis. There, she must adapt to life on land, navigate human relationships, and uncover secrets to break her curse. As Sereia goes deeper into her quest for revenge and identity, she faces consequences that challenge her perceptions of love, loyalty, and vengeance.
Final Thoughts:
The book starts strong with its imaginative blend of Atlantic mythology and Little Mermaid fairy tale elements. However, the sudden unfeelingness of formerly friendly people and Sereia's abrupt descent into murderous rage at the conclusion feels forced and disproportionate, detracting from the sympathy we have built up. Despite this criticism, the novel shows a fresh perspective on familiar tales and explores complex themes of identity, justice, and destiny. ‘Our Vengeful Souls' will appeal to readers intrigued by mythological retellings, and villain backstories.
5 out of 5 stars
“Belladonna” by Adalyn Grace is a captivating blend of gothic fantasy, mystery, and romance that will enchant you from the first page. Set in a slightly magical 19th-century world, the story follows Signa Farrow, a 17-year-old orphan with an unusual gift – she can communicate with spirits and has a unique relationship with Death himself, and she does not like it at all.
When Signa is sent to live with her last living relatives, the Hawthornes, at their eerie Thorn Grove estate, she becomes entangled in a web of family secrets, suspicious deaths, and a mysterious illness plaguing her young cousin. As Signa delves deeper into the family's dark history, she must use her supernatural abilities to uncover the truth behind her aunt's murder and save her cousin's life.
Grace's writing is beautifully atmospheric, creating a lush, gothic ambience that permeates every page. She weaves together elements of fantasy, paranormal, and mystery, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The pacing is well-executed, with plenty of twists and turns to maintain suspense throughout the novel.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters. Signa's growth from an angry, lonely, cursed orphan to a young woman embracing her powers is compelling. The supporting cast, including the charismatic Death, adds depth and intrigue to the story. The chemistry between Signa and Death is particularly noteworthy, creating a slow-burn romance that will leave readers swooning. Talk about an age-gap romance!
While some readers may intuit one or two plot twists, the overall mystery remains engaging, with several surprises in store. The ending sets up an intriguing cliffhanger, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the series. Luckily, the next two books are already published and I absolutely devoured them.
“Belladonna” is perfect for fans of gothic literature, paranormal romance, and murder mysteries. Adalyn Grace has crafted a dreamy, imaginative world that will linger in your mind long after you finish this book.
With its stunning cover matching the beauty of its contents, this book is both a visual and literary treat.
I listened to the Audible adaptation, a fun story. Reminds me somewhat of the Parasol Protectorate series. The vast majority of the time it is a fun listen with great characters.
A content warning: Attempted SA is a repeated theme, at least in the Audible version. One of these scenes is very sounds (foley) heavy, so if SA is a trigger, you may wish to avoid the Audible recording.
3.5/5 rounded up to 4/5 Stars
I listened to the audiobook version.
This shorter audiobook is a super sweet second-chance romance that shows love can reappear when you least expect it. This contemporary cowboy audio novella follows Kendall Dixon and Brent Ashton as they figure out their love life (again) in the little town of Marietta, Montana. When Brent returns to help out his sick mom, he finds out that his first love Kendall is now a strong, determined woman who knows what she wants – including him.
Tropes featured:
- First Love & Second Chance Romance
- Slow Burn
- Closed-door Romance
- Caretaker Hero & Strong Heroine
Jessica Preddy's narration gives a cosy country vibe. Her warm delivery brings the characters to life, with different voices for each character. The pacing includes pauses that let the emotional bits sink in, but listeners can easily adjust the speed without losing quality. Through no fault of the narrator, two of the male names are similar, which can lead to confusion if you aren't paying full attention or get interrupted, so just be aware.
This audiobook is a nice little treat for romance fans looking for a quick, satisfying listen. The author strikes a great balance between sweet romance and emotional depth, making this an awesome pick for anyone who likes their love stories wholesome yet meaningful.
In this touching novel made of interconnected stories, a thoughtful stationery shop owner in Tokyo's Ginza district helps customers find not just the perfect paper or writing implements, but also paths to healing and connection through the simple act of putting pen to paper.
Over five separate but connected tales, we meet characters seeking something deeper than notebooks or pens: a man struggling with a eulogy, a woman trying to find the right way to depart, a high school athlete struggling to confess something, and more. Being a stationery lover myself, I love how each story demonstrates how the physical act of writing can unlock emotions and memories in ways that digital communication cannot.
Each of these stories show how life's fractures can be carefully repaired, for others, and for yourself While addressing themes of loss, loneliness, and change, the book maintains an uplifting tone throughout. I have to admit, I got teary at more than one of these tales.
The author beautifully captures the sensory pleasures of fine stationery - from the satisfying weight of a fountain pen to the weighty texture of premium paper. For anyone who has lovingly browsed in a stationery shop, these descriptions will resonate deeply. The book also weaves in fascinating details about Japanese stationery culture, which I enjoyed learning more about.
If you are not familiar with the Japanese style of storytelling, the end may seem abrupt. This is a book of processing, not of finality. It is best to think of this novel as a slice of life, not only of all the customers, but especially the shop owner.
This book is a timely reminder that in our digital world, there's still something irreplaceable about the personal touch of writing things out, and sharing our handwritten words. I really hope that I can find more works by this author in the future.
Thank you so much to Manilla Press and NetGalley for providing me with an eArc to review.
4.5 out of 5 Stars
Wished by Sarah Ready is a contemporary magical realist romance that takes readers on an adventure of love and finding out what they want, and what it means to truly figure that out.
Set in both beautiful Switzerland and France, this is the fourth book in the Ghosted series. It tells the story of Anna, a hardworking, true-romantic house cleaner who has secretly loved her wealthy boss, Max Barone, for a couple of years. After making a wish on his family heirloom necklace Anna finds herself in a different reality where she's been married to Max for seven years, and she must navigate this new life while questioning what true love and happiness mean in reality.
Ready successfully combines elements of magic and heartfelt romance yet again. The story makes you reflect on what you want from love, highlighting the saying “Be careful what you wish for”. Anna is a lovable character, and it's heartwarming to see Max change from someone who seems cold to a sweet (if a little dirty) romantic interest.
The book moves quickly, with short chapters and some steamy moments that add excitement to the magical storyline. The audiobook, narrated by Amanda Ronconi and Will Watt (who sadly only got 2 chapters), brings the characters to life and is great for those who enjoy listening.
Having read Fated, I was excited for some justice for poor Max. I was a little off-put by how Max is introduced (not like I remember from Fated), and how he acts when upset. I think it is meant to be powerful and sexy, but if domestic violence is a trigger for you, just be aware that Max has a habit of grabbing and holding Anna by the wrist multiple times throughout. However, he is not a violent man.
This book feels like a slight shift into the billionaire romance genre. It is a little wild that their class disparity is never properly addressed, even as a challenge for them to overcome. The power dynamic is outrageously in Max's favour, with a generational gemstone wealth behind him, while Anna is someone who drifted into house cleaning to take care of her poor family and ended up making it her living. However, if you like billionaire romances, I don't know that it would bother you. I haven't read any, so I am not the best judge.
Overall, “Wished” is a fun escape for anyone who loves contemporary romance with a touch of magical realism. It's perfect for those who believe in wishes and the power of love and living authentically, or enjoy billionaire romances. Whether you're just starting the series or have been a fan for a while, Sarah Ready has done it again!
Thank you to Swift & Lewis Publishing, LLC & Net Galley for providing an audiobook copy for my unbiased review.
Jenny Sandiford's “Winterfrost Market” is a charming blend of cosy fantasy and a little romance sure to warm your heart and take you on a delightful adventure through a magical winter wonderland. The story follows Elsie, a tea-loving human, as she sets off on a heartfelt quest to find her missing mother, with the support of Kit, a mysterious and sometimes charming tracker.
Spice:
Skysong by C.A. Wright is a wonderful twist on Hans Christian Andersen's The Nightingale. Oriane, who can change into a bird and sings to make the sunrise, feels trapped in her quiet, ignorant life. When she runs away and is found in the royal gardens, she is taken to live in the palace, where people admire her like a goddess, but she is a prisoner. As Oriane deals with the tricky politics around her, she forms a special relationship with her maid, Andala, who may also be something more than she seems.
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel. Narrator Olivia Darnley brings the story to life, with a gentle voice and cadence that fits the dreamy vibe of this tale. The beautiful story makes it easy to get lost in this charming fantasy world. With lovable characters, magical moments, and lovely language, Skysong is a fantastic first audiobook that will delight fans of fairytales.
“Impractical Magic” is a charming cosy autumnal read. Set in the matrilineal magical small town of Oak Haven, New England, the story follows Scarlett Melrose, the screw-up middle child who returns home after a decade to confront her past mistakes and resolve a magical crisis.
Grimoire's enjoyable prose brings the cosy setting to life, The fluffy novel blends family drama, second-chance romance, and a hint of magical mystery, creating an engaging narrative that explores themes of self-discovery, reconciliation, and standing up for yourself. The book almost reminds me of My Big Fat Greek Wedding in the best way.
The book's strengths include its quirky characters, atmospheric writing, and quick world-building. One nitpick: the use of “muggle” for non-magic users feels slightly unoriginal, and could invoke negative feelings for some readers. It's a minor flaw in an otherwise enjoyable read.
Perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls and Practical Magic, this cosy autumn tale offers an ideal blend of magic and small-town charm. It's best enjoyed on a crisp autumn day with a warm blanket and a pumpkin spice latte.
Thank you to Avon Books UK and Net Galley for the eARC of this book so that I could provide my honest review.
I found this book to be an enchanting tale that combines whimsy, mystery, and a little romance. The story centres on Foss Butcher, a strong, endearing village girl whose world shifts when her heart is unknowingly (and accidentally) snagged by Sylvester, a young sorcerer with an interesting history. Determined to take charge of her fate, Foss sets off to the enchanted city. There she enters Sylvester's sentient house, meeting a charming talking cat, and uncovering the secrets hidden within the kingdom's magical heart-snatching practices.
The setting is immersive, filled with whimsical details that evoke Howl's Moving Castle. The house is a fascinating work of magic that is fun to explore along with Foss. Cornelius, the witty talking cat, adds a much-needed companion for Foss. He has a good sense of humour and a needed warmth for Foss.
Eames' writing is colourful and tender, particularly in portraying Foss's blend of bravery (or stubbornness) and self-doubt in the face of powerful magic. I must confess that Foss's constant negative self-talk began to drag on me. It was demonstrated perfectly in the first quarter of the book and didn't need to continue through the book.
While the plot hints at romance, the slow-burn relationship between Foss and Sylvester might not be worth the wait for some and may be considered underwhelming. It would have been lovely to see more development in Sylvester's character to sell the connection as being more than just the magic that Foss is a victim of.
Even so, this book's unique, character-driven story will resonate with readers who enjoy novels like “Howl's Moving Castle” and “The House in the Cerulean Sea”. With its mix of medieval village charm, sinister magic, and a hint of melancholy, this debut novel is perfect for those who appreciate whimsical fantasy with a touch of depth and enjoy a slow burn.
5/5 Stars!
“The Cursed Writer” by Holly Hepburn is a British historical mystery with a hint of cosiness that will surely appeal to fans of Sherlock Holmes and anyone who loves a thoughtfully crafted whodunit. Set in the 1930s in England, the second novel in the series follows Harriet White, a clever young woman relegated to working in the basement of a Baker Street building society, where she answers letters addressed to the famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Her curiosity is sparked when she receives an urgent telegram concerning the troubles of the celebrated author Philip St John, leading her to the mysterious Thurmwell Manor in Cambridgeshire.
Hepburn's writing is so enjoyable. She refines the essence of classic detective fiction with a gently modern touch, crafting a story that feels both nostalgic and modern. The atmospheric backdrop of the foggy fens and the gothic manor house adds a wonderfully eerie element and reminds me of a Sherlock Holmes tale (a la Hound of the Baskervilles). The central mystery is cleverly plotted, filled with twists and surprises that will keep you guessing. Hepburn adeptly weaves together various plot threads, including nods to earlier cases and hints at exciting future escapades. She also includes a compelling personal journey for the main character, full of its own twists.
The heart of the book is Harry herself. She is clever, independent, and ahead of her time - but not out of place. Her determination to solve the case, despite the societal norms of her time (without unrealistically disrespecting them), shows a clever mind indeed. The supporting characters are also well-developed, especially Oliver who is a great partner in justice (Do I ship her and Oliver? Absolutely I do, even though there is no actual romance indicated).
“The Cursed Writer” is a wonderful choice for fans of cosy and historical mysteries, and Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie fans. It is a delightful mix of period details, engaging characters, and a classic mystery that will attract readers who appreciate a thoughtful challenge with a hint of the supernatural. Whether you're jumping into the series for the first time or coming back for another adventure, this book is for you.
Thank you to Boldwood Books & Net Galley for a eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Happy Medium is a delightful read that I devoured in just one sitting. It blends humour with a touch of the paranormal in a heartwarming and funny way. Author Sarah Adler has created lovable characters in Gretchen Acorn and Charlie Waybill that perfectly fit in the grumpy x sunshine genre.
Gretchen, a fake medium who prefers the ‘harmless' con of speaking with the dead over outright hustles, finds herself in a tricky situation when tasked with cleansing a supposedly haunted goat farm. Meeting the sceptical and brooding (and hot) Charlie puts a spanner in the works. When Gretchen bumps into the real ghost doing the real haunting, her adventure takes a surprising turn, making for a charming and unconventional supernatural rom-com.
The premise of Happy Medium combines humour, romance, and a bit of the paranormal refreshingly well. The chemistry between Gretchen and Charlie is electric. The addition of a handsome (and horny) ghost adds to the chaos and charm of the story. Adler excels at creating relatable characters and placing them in entertaining situations.
I highly recommend Happy Medium with a rating of 4.5 stars. It's a fun read that offers a mix of contemporary and unconventional elements. Whether you enjoy paranormal romances or grumpy x sunshine romances, this book is sure to satisfy you.
I recently finished “The Last Raven” by Helen Glynn Jones, and it was a good, interesting take on vampire fantasy/romance. The novel follows Emelia, a human born into a powerful vampire family, destined to rule over a world of immortals who would eat her in a heartbeat. This book is solidly in the YA/NA category. Some people would categorise this under romantasy, but I would categorise it as a fantasy with heavy romantic elements.
Jones does an excellent job of building tension throughout the story. The plot moves pretty fast with a couple of unexpected twists. I was impressed by the ending, which was genuinely surprising and well-executed. I found myself wanting more details about the vampire society and its history. However, the fast-paced plot largely made up for this little shortcoming.
The relationship between Emelia and Kyle, her new human empathiser guard, adds an interesting dynamic to the story. Their interactions are charged with tension, providing a nice balance to the more serious political elements of the plot. While Emelia's character can be frustrating at times due to her childishness, it's understandable given her sheltered upbringing. Her struggle to reconcile her human nature with her vampire destiny is well-portrayed and adds depth to her character.
Overall, “The Last Raven” offers a new angle on vampire lore, blending elements of political intrigue, a coming-of-age drama, and romance. It did give me some “Twilight” vibes (but without some of the more problematic aspects), making it an enjoyable read for both young adult and new adult audiences. I'm looking forward to seeing how the series develops in future!
I listened to the audiobook version of this book. Anna Appleby is a hot, divorced, and chronically single mum who has her kids play matchmaker to help save her newspaper column, and maybe even help her find love. The narrator perfectly captures the humour and heart of Anna's quirky dating adventures, from cringe-worthy setups to unexpected sparks with her workplace rival Will.
Anna's Google searches are funny and relatable and those priceless text messages (that window scene!) make Anna relatable. I especially loved how Sophie brought authenticity to the more mature themes of navigating divorce, career challenges, and finding love again in your 30s. I don't feel like this is a true enemies-to-lovers, more of a rivals-to-lovers story, and it was excellently done.
The narrator was an excellent choice for the role and the book. She is great at doing variations of voices, you can tell character voices apart. This is the perfect listen for fans of witty workplace romance with depth.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for providing a review copy.
Just finished “Sandwiches of History” by Barry Enderwick and I'm hungry now! This delightful cookbook-meets-history-book is a great read. The book is packed with fascinating historical gems, plus nearly 100 recipes that range from fancy club sandwiches to unexpectedly creative combos.
What makes this book special is how Enderwick modernises old-school recipes while keeping their historical charm. Each sandwich comes with its origin story, and there are deep dives into the history of everyday condiments like mustard and mayo. The photos are gorgeous, and the whole book is fun to flip through, even if you're not planning to cook anything.
It was noted in the book that not all popular sandwiches were included, maybe most notably for me, the Reuben. This is because the author didn't feel we needed yet another recipe, or that he couldn't add anything to it. However, there were recipes for a croque monsieur, a sloppy joe, a chip buttie, and a bahn mi so that seemed like a bit of weird logic to exclude the Reuben but include a Sloppy Joe.
Overall though, whether you're a food history buff or just someone who likes a good sandwich, this book is a treat. It's the kind of read that makes you want to try something new and expand your sandwich horizons.
This books didn't hit as hard for me as Switched, even though the premise is just as intriguing. It took much longer than I expected to get to the crux of the story, the dreaming, and I feel rather disconnected from it. The writing itself is as strong and fresh as ever, I just don't think this book is right for me. Also: justice for Max.
Rating: 5/5 Stars
General Thoughts:
‘Best Hex Ever' by Nadia El-Fassi is a delightful debut that mixes romance and magic, and throws in a cafe and forced proximity for good measure. As someone who enjoys paranormal romance this book was a fun, cosy read. The mix of sweet and spicy scenes makes this book an ideal autumn read, perfect for those chilly nights by the fire.
Summary:
Dina Whitlock runs a cafe in London that serves delicious pastries and a hint of magic. Plagued by a hex that brings increasingly to anyone she loves, Dina has guarded her heart for years. Enter Scott Mason, a world traveler returning to London to start anew as a curator at the British Museum. As they navigate a weekend full of wedding duties as Maid of Honour and Best Man, they have to face their growing feelings. Dina must confront the hex that threatens to drive them apart. The story is filled with witchy rituals, heartfelt moments, and just the right amount of spice to keep readers engaged.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, ‘Best Hex Ever' is a cosy magical romance that will leave you smiling. It's a wonderful addition to the cosy paranormal genre, and I can't wait to see what Nadia El-Fassi writes next. If you're looking for a heartwarming and spicy read ‘Best Hex Ever' should be at the top of your list.
This book is so perfect if you are looking to have a nice, fun, sophisticated drink without the alcohol!
I do love a cocktail (I even married a bartender!) but I lately I have been looking for something to drink that's interesting without the booze. Author Debbie Podlogar, known as the ‘Mocktail Mom', details a range of delicious and refreshing mocktails that cater to every taste, from spicy and frozen treats to holiday-themed sips.
I am always happy with a cocktail recipe book when I see recipes for mules, a Dark and Stormy, and a Pina colada and this book has them all. In fact, there are all the classics you expect (margarita, mimosa, etc), and some I have never even heard of - I can't wait to try a Pisco Sour.
The stylish book is laid out in a professional and easy-to-navigate way, with helpful tips on setting up a home bar and garnishing drinks. The 50+ cocktails are beautifully photographed, and have creative but practical recipes.
Whether you're abstaining completely or just cutting back, this book has something for everyone. It's a fabulous resource that will have you shaking, stirring and muddling your way to a gorgeous mocktail in no time.
Thank you to Rock Point and NetGalley for providing a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
After watching her father killed by mysterious assassins, Silla Nordvig is trying to escape her dangerous past and the unknown secrets that come with it. She sets out on a risky journey to safety along the Road of Bones. Hoping to get a ride with a tough group of Viking warriors, she stows away on their wagon and has to prove herself when discovered. Along the way, she faces tricky alliances, dark creatures, and a love that grows even when it seems impossible.
Demi Winters creates a vivid world inspired by Viking culture and Norse myths. The setting feels like Skyrim plus Dragon Age, which I love. The scenes are beautifully described, and the fights are intense, making it difficult to put down. Getting used to the complicated society and the different characters takes some time if you are unfamiliar with Norse words, but there is a handy glossary in the back.
The characters are interesting and well-developed. Silla grows throughout her journey as she learns to balance her fight for survival with her inner strength. I love that all the Bloodaxe crew members are distinct individuals and some of them have disabilities that are handled with grace, love the inclusion! Her interactions with the Bloodaxe Crew, especially her complicated relationships with Axe Eyes and Wolf, keep the story engaging and the fight scenes are well-written and fun to read.
If you enjoy dark low fantasy or dark romantasy, “The Road of Bones” is a book that fans of gritty tales like Throne of Glass and The Last Kingdom will love. It's great for readers who appreciate themes of found family, slow-building romance, and stories set in Viking-inspired worlds.
Themes/Tropes
- Found family
- Enemies becoming lovers
- Slow-building romance
- Brooding warrior character(s)
- Dangerous quest
Some content warnings: This book includes violence and gore, attempted sexual assault, emotional abuse, addiction, grief, forced drugging, captivity, and loss of family.